pope benedict announcing his resignation. the leader of more than a billion roman cath littles around the world is citing declining health. i will step down at the end of the month. i'm jon scott. jenna: i'm jenna lee. the pope's announcement taking many by surprise. he revealed his decision explaining as jon mentioned he can no longer fulfill his duties according to his own opinion because of his failing health. >> translator: in today's world, subject to so many rapid changes and shaken by questions of deep relevance for the life of faith, no order to govern the bark of st. peter and proclaim the gospel both strength of body and mind are necessary. strength within the last few months deteriorated in me to the extent that i have had to recognize my capacity to adequately fulfill the ministry entrusted to me. jenna: greg palkot is live in london with the latest on this, greg? >> reporter: jenna, it was a big surprise. pope benedict xvi saying he would resign as of february 28th. that is less than eight years into his papacy.